“We are not in danger of running out of food or other supplies brought in by our retailers,” assured Trade and Industry Minister Chan Chun Sing in a Facebook post on Monday night, 16 March 2020.
People were once again seen rushing to supermarkets and stocking up on groceries following the Malaysian government’s announcement of a nationwide lockdown which will take effect from 18 to 31 March 2020, to stem the spread of Covid-19.
The scenes were reminiscent of last month’s panic buying after Singapore raised the Disease Outbreak Response System Condition (DORSCON) alert level to Orange. But this time, shoppers were buying in smaller quantities.
"I am happy to see that in the supermarkets, while the queues are longer than usual, people are taking it in their stride and only buying what they need. We need not worry, as we have prepared for such an eventuality, and have plans in place to cope. Glad that Singaporeans are calm, united and resilient as we solve the problems at hand," said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in a Facebook post on 17 March 2020.
Malaysia’s lockdown means its citizens cannot leave the country and foreigners cannot enter.
“Given the close proximity between Singapore and Malaysia, many Singaporeans may be concerned about what this will mean for them.
“The Government has been actively working with essential firms such as NTUC FairPrice, Sheng Siong and Dairy Farm International to increase our stock of food and essential supplies over the last two months,” added Mr Chan.
NTUC FairPrice Group CEO Seah Kian Peng commented in a Facebook post that FairPrice stocks are being replenished from various distribution centres.
“FairPrice stands ready to ensure daily essentials remain available for Singapore. While there may be concerns regarding the latest movement restriction order from Malaysia, we want to assure Singaporeans that we have sufficient stocks,” said Mr Seah.
He added: “Our staff continue to work hard to serve the community and replenish high demand items. We appreciate customers’ understanding and patience during this time.”
To discourage resellers and ensure as many customers have access to daily essentials items, purchase limits for the following items will be in effect from 17 March 2020:
NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng commented on a Facebook post that both he and Mr Seah are keeping close tabs on NTUC FairPrice.
